Cookies

We want you to get the most out of using this website, which is why we and our partners use cookies. By continuing to use this site, you are agreeing to receive these cookies. You can find out more about how we use cookies here.

12 drug arrests in week in west Cumbria police operation

Senior police officers have revealed the latest successes of Operation Ulterior, their ongoing drugs crackdown in west Cumbria.

Mark Wear

In the last week alone, a dozen people have been arrested for suspected drugs offences in the Workington and Maryport areas.

They included the possession of illegal drugs such as cannabis, amphetamine, and cocaine, as well as possession with intent to supply.

Some of those arrested were picked up in Workington town centre, while the rest were held after police stop-and-search operations.

So far during the current financial year, police in west Cumbria have made 373 drugs arrests – 99 more than during the previous year. Of the total arrests made, 69 were for drug supply (36 more than last year) and 304 were for possession offences.

Police say there has also been a 26 per cent increase in drugs crime in Workington and Maryport – but senior officers say that is the result of their more proactive targeting of drugs criminals.

Inspector Mark Wear said: “We are proactively addressing the problems which our communities are telling us are the greatest concern to them.

“People should be aware that we will continue to tackle this problem: we will keep coming back.

“There are people in our community who are willing to come forward. People should know that if they are involved in illegal drugs in this area, there’s a good chance they will be caught.”

Since the launch of Operation Ulterior in February 2011, police have made more than 400 arrests. Many of those suspects have had to face justice in the courts.

Some of those arrested in the latest phase of the crackdown have been charged with drugs offences and some have already been charged with serious drugs offences. Many involved in illicit drugs encounter them during social nights out in Workington.